Legislation for a deposit return scheme (DRS) for drinks containers in England and Northern Ireland has come into force today.

It means the Government can appoint a managing body in April before the scheme launches in October 2027.

Under the DRS, consumers will be charged a deposit fee when they buy a drink in a single-use container. They can redeem the deposit when they return the container to a collection point, enabling the materials to be recycled.

The scheme will include 150ml to 3 litre containers made from plastic and metal. It is not known what the deposit charge will be.

Countries such as Germany, Sweden and the Republic of Ireland have implemented similar schemes, with an average return rate of 90% for European countries.

Circular economy minister Mary Creagh said: ‘This Government will clean up Britain and end the throwaway society.

‘This is a vital step as we stop the avalanche of rubbish that is filling up our streets, rivers and oceans and protect our treasured wildlife.’

The Scottish Government aims to introduce a separate DRS, which includes glass, at the same time.

Wales is also planning its own scheme involving glass containers after pulling out of the UK-wide DRS last year.

The Local Government Association’s (LGA’s) environment spokesperson, Adam Hug, said: ‘The management of the scheme must involve local government in its decision making and work with us to address any challenges that come up in order to help make sure the scheme works well for everyone. 

‘The LGA is keen to explore simpler and more affordable ways to compensate local authorities for handling the materials involved in the scheme.’